In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9, NIV

This year, I’ve started asking people a simple question: How are you? No, really?

Too often, we breeze past that question with a quick, “I’m fine.”

But are we? Really?

Most of us know that being a Christian educator in public schools can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. Some days, it’s the most fulfilling work in the world. Other days, it rattles you to the core. Maybe you’re in a season of struggle right now—saying “I’m fine” when you’re actually exhausted, overwhelmed, or wondering if you’re even making a difference.

I get it.

Earlier this year, I found myself carrying more than I had a margin for—hard decisions, heavy conversations, and mounting responsibilities. One day after school, in the middle of all of it, I started a new habit: walking the halls of my school at night, praying and meditating on Proverbs 16:9.

I needed the reminder that I wasn’t in this alone and that my job wasn’t to control everything but to stay faithful, one step at a time, and let God take care of the rest.

Maybe you need that reminder, too.

If you’re feeling unsteady today, know this: God sees you. He is with you. He is working in ways you can’t yet see. Keep walking. Keep trusting. You’re not alone.

Lord, for the weary educators reading this today, meet them right where they are. When they feel uncertain, remind them that You are steady. When they feel unseen, remind them that You see them. When they feel like they’re not enough, remind them that You are. Establish their steps today. Amen.

Copyright Jessica Cabeen.

Jessica is a Christian Educators member, principal in Minnesota, and the author of the Ask a Principal Anything blog